It was a terrible look - not to mention illegal - but it might just be one of a number of off-field issues in the game across the ditch.

The New Zealand Herald reports that several incidents have been swept under the carpet over the past year.

"There were worrying signs about the Kiwis team culture from as early as last year, with one high-profile player involved in two unreported alcohol-related incidents following last year's end of year test against the Kangaroos in Perth and on the subsequent Four Nations campaign in the UK," the Herald reports.

The Herald didn't reveal which senior player was involved in the alleged incidents, but it's not the first time the Kiwis have been hit by off-field indiscretions.

Last year several Warriors players, including internationals, were dropped from NRL duties after taking prescription drugs on a night out after a heavy loss to the Storm.

A similar scandal hit the Kiwis side during the 2013 Rugby League World Cup, when several players mixed Stillnox and energy drinks.